Troy University Air Force ROTC cadets recently traveled to Camp Atterbury in Indiana, where they participated in a multi-day field training exercise designed to simulate real-world deployment conditions alongside cadets from across the country.
Hosted by Indiana State University, the large-scale exercise brought together approximately 150 cadets for an immersive training experience focused on preparing future officers for the demands of operational environments. The event simulated a deployment scenario in the European theater, requiring participants to apply both technical knowledge and leadership skills in dynamic, high-pressure situations.
Throughout the exercise, cadets engaged in a wide range of hands-on training activities, including deployment processing, small unit tactics, base defense operations, unexploded ordnance procedures, land navigation, and tactical combat casualty care. These scenarios were designed to challenge cadets physically and mentally while reinforcing skills essential to Air Force operations.
A key component of the experience was the role Troy’s senior cadets played in planning and preparing for the trip. As part of their academic curriculum, they led the coordination of logistics, transportation, funding, and training requirements using the military’s Joint Planning Process and Operational Design framework. This approach required cadets to develop detailed plans, establish objectives, and prepare underclassmen for the tasks they would encounter in the field.
“As a senior-level cadet, my primary role was to evaluate and oversee other cadets to ensure they are making the most of the opportunity,” said by Cadet Shaheem Gray. “As I evaluated a few cadets, I had the opportunity to learn different leadership styles, even from cadets with less experience than me. I would take note of it and try to apply it myself. With that being said, everyone had an important job with the opportunity to learn something.”
Underclassmen also spent the semester preparing for the exercise through structured training led by upperclassmen. Instruction focused on drill and command procedures, expeditionary skills, communication protocols, and field tactics, ensuring all participants were equipped to operate effectively during the event.
Training alongside cadets from other universities provided an additional layer of realism. Participants were required to collaborate with unfamiliar teams, adapt to different leadership styles, and operate in a new environment. These experiences reflected the realities of modern military service. This exposure also allowed cadets to observe and exchange best practices, strengthening their overall development and broadening their perspective.
The experience contributed to significant growth across all class levels, reinforcing leadership development, teamwork, and confidence in challenging situations. It also supported required training objectives while strengthening connections with other ROTC detachments nationwide.
“When it comes time for me to step into the shoes of these senior cadets that run our training and operations, I now have a better understanding of how I want to apply what I learned from the detachments we were able to interact with on this trip,” said by Cadet Lesley Jackson. “I have a whole new list of contacts to collaborate with over the next 2 years of AFROTC to continue improving upon the foundation that those cadets before us have built. This trip reignited a sense of possibility within me and has me excited again for my future in this program and in the Air Force.”
By participating in this large-scale field exercise, Troy University’s AFROTC program continues to expand its training opportunities, preparing cadets to succeed as future Air Force officers in complex and evolving operational environments.
